Blackpool got £39.5m in the first round... the largest allocation of anywhere yet.
When was that?
Blackpool should definitely still be high on that list if not its a disgrace.
I've had a read through all 57 pages of this Blackpool Town Investment Plan and I would recommend that everyone should do so if you want to learn about the town. It's very informative.
I have skimmed the councils plan posted above and a lot seems admirable and would love to see it come to fruition.
The plan by 2030 certainly sounds good, the highlights for me were these bits....
"Blackpool has a clear vision to be a thriving coastal community by 2030, as laid out in the Town Prospectus published by the Blackpool Pride of Place Partnership in June 2020. Starting from a
fresh, inspirational vision and narrative, the Prospectus identifies the issues to be addressed, the regeneration journey to date and sets out aspirational projects which require input and investment from a range of partners. These are presented alongside a series of ‘Asks’ – i.e. the
policy, infrastructure, and other financial changes needed – to outline a path towards a new, flourishing Blackpool with a healthier economy and thriving community.
The Town Prospectus vision is that:
‘Blackpool will be a buzzing, attractive town that residents are proud of, where business is thriving and there are career opportunities for all. It is a 21st century year- round leisure destination that appeals to everyone, from visiting conference delegates and high income
tourists staying in the award-winning 5-star hotels, to a younger, hipper crowd in search of a weekend away full of partying, music and fashion festivals. Families will enjoy the rejuvenated promenade, markets and attractions. This is a green town which is carbon neutral and enjoying the cleanest air in the country.
The town centre has been transformed with extensive covered walkways and an abundance of open, recreational space and all-weather activities. This has attracted new businesses and
increased footfall. There are innovative family entertainment offerings, new and exciting independent retail shops as well as kids’ activities, a cinema/music venue and fun food options.
Sub-standard buildings have been replaced and Blackpool’s further education has been expanded with a
city (?) centre campus. There are a number of flexible workspace centres for SMEs
and graduate entrepreneurs, attracted by Blackpool’s ‘Silicon Sands’ reputation built on its future thinking town-wide digital infrastructure, connected to the transatlantic loop from New York. There is high-quality, affordable accommodation, with well -resourced support centres for adult training, education and drug/alcohol rehabilitation, including specialist help for children
coming out of the care system. Local schools are well resourced and flourishing, whilst crime levels have been reduced.
Blackpool remains the mecca for all ballroom dancing fans, and a year-round dance school attracts new and repeat visitors young and old, as well as feeding into the healthy living ethos for the ageing population’."
"Blackpool Town Prospectus headline outcomes for 2030 include:
The creation and safeguarding of at least 10,000 jobs, where the economy will grow by £1 billion through a combination of tourism, building on existing and emerging economic strengths, and innovation.
The concentration of deprivation in the inner area will be tackled, helping to raise the area out of the bottom decile, with 3,000 new quality homes created.
Top quartile employment rates are to be achieved for 16-24-year olds compared to other Lancashire Local Authorities through a particular focus on health and well-being and work readiness.
The national perception of Blackpool is to be established as a ‘can do’ place with a buzz, attracting graduates, families and business visitors, recognised as an established and credible business investment location, with increased local pride."
Really hope they pull it off and get the funding it so deserves! If not think we should start petitions, etc until they do something.
Another thing is increase greenery which is underway and set to continue.
The greening up of Blackpool has begun with hundreds of new trees already planted around the resort as part of a strategy to boost the environment.
www.blackpoolgazette.co.uk
www.gov.uk
